INGROWNNAILS

Description of the procedure and treatment:

Ingrown nail (onychocryptosis) is a relatively common condition. It is probably caused by micro-injuries, improper trimming of the nail plate, wearing ill-fitted footwear and sometimes is a result of a specific genetic predisposition. The condition may be managed by means of tamponade, correction braces and wedge-shaped cutting of nail plate with a scalpel. In the case of more advanced condition resistant to conservative treatment, surgical intervention is necessary. Until recently it consisted of removing a part of the nail plate together with nail matrix and bed (Emmet’s operation). Lately, a less invasive surgical method of ingrown nail treatment has been introduced. It involves a removal of only lateral parts of the nail plate and partial mechanical and chemical destruction of the lateral areas of the matrix and bed by curettage and the use of caustic agents (phenol matrixectomy). Application of such approach facilitate smoother postoperative course of recovery and faster return to work.